Carpe Diem
Ironically, this was our high school senior class motto. What did we really know about seizing the day when we were 17 ? It definitely means a lot more to me now at this stage of my life.
Take this image. I pass by this beautiful spot twice a day when I drive my daughter to school. This past week, the fall colors popped out of the landscape. I’d think, “We’re going to go there next weekend and enjoy the beautiful fall colors.” Part of me was thinking, ‘Go now, don’t wait.’ Another part of me, however, wanted to wait and enjoy the outing with my family.
We went over the weekend. I immediately knew I should have listened to the little voice that had previously whispered: ‘don’t wait.’ The strong, cold winds the night before had left many of the trees almost bare. The golden leaves were beautiful although most of them were strewn across the ground.
What a brilliant (literally and figuratively) lesson on carpe diem. This experience comes on the heels of many health issues my parents are facing. As I look back on the choices they have made over the last 20 years, I can see now what those decisions were based on and why. Thank goodness they had the foresight to choose their dreams despite their circumstances.
So whether it’s something small or the biggest decision of your life, simply remember carpe diem….. seize the day.